November 30, Colombo (LNW): Agricultural groups in the Central Province have issued a stark warning that the already rising cost of vegetables is set to climb even higher, following widespread damage caused by the ongoing heavy rains and floods.
These extreme weather conditions have wreaked havoc on crops, leaving farmers in distress as they struggle to salvage their produce.
Vegetable growers in the region have raised concerns about their inability to harvest crops in a timely manner, as well as the challenges they face in applying fertiliser to their fields.
The devastation caused by the flooding has led to significant crop losses, with tomatoes, beans, brinjals, and green chillies being particularly hard hit.
Y.M.S. Bandara, a spokesperson for the Ambana Farmers’ Organisation, expressed frustration over the situation, highlighting that the transportation network has been severely disrupted due to the floods.
As a result, wholesale traders from outside the area have been unable to reach the Economic Centres, where farmers typically sell their produce, further compounding the difficulties faced by vegetable cultivators.
In addition to the immediate loss of crops, the ongoing transport issues have meant that even the vegetables that have survived the floods are not able to be sold at market prices, leaving many farmers with no means of generating income.
This supply shortage is expected to drive up prices in the coming weeks, making it even more difficult for consumers to afford essential produce.
The agricultural community has called for urgent assistance from the government to address the damage caused by the floods and to help ensure that the region’s farmers can recover.
